The Nitrogen Cycle

Front

The process in which nitrogen circulates and is recycled is called

Back

The nitrogen cycle

Front

How do animals get the nitrogen they need?

Back

From the food they eat

Front

According to this diagram, plants absorb: nitrates, nitrogen fixing bacteria, animals, decomposers

Back

nitrates

Front

According to this diagram, plants use nitrates to make _________________________

Back

proteins

Front

What is the process where some bacteria turn Nitrogen gas from the atmosphere into usable nitrates?

Back

nitrogen fixation

Front

The relationship between the bacteria and the pea plant is described as mutualistic; what does this mean?

Back

Both the bacteria and the pea plant benefit from this relationship.

Front

What process occurs when soil becomes waterlogged, and an anaerobic bacterium converts nitrate into Nitrogen in the atmosphere?

Back

Denitrification

Front

Legumes (e.g., pea plants) are able to increase the level of soil nitrogen where they are planted. What is a benefit this provides?

Back

There is more nitrogen available in the soil for other crops that are planted there.

Front

Which organisms in the nitrogen cycle convert ammonia produced by decomposition into nitrates?

Back

Nitrifying bacteria

Front

Which organisms in the nitrogen cycle convert proteins, contained in urea and the bodies of dead organisms, into ammonia?

Back

Decomposers